An NPO with a Deep Love for Birds of Prey
Eagle Encounters was founded in 2001. They are a nonprofit organization that relies on eco-tourism to fulfil its mission to rehabilitate and educate. Eagle Encounters has an active rescue and rehabilitation program. This program focuses on rescuing birds of prey around Cape Town. In this program, Eagle Encounters do its best to rehabilitate and release the birds back into the wild. Their strategic partnership with Spier Wine Farm, whose strong eco-drive includes practising organic farming methods, creates the perfect environment for releasing smaller raptor species into nature.
In addition to their remarkable conservation work to protect birds of prey, Eagle Encounters also believes that appreciating and taking care of our environment should be nurtured from a young age. With this in mind, they designed an educational program for children, encouraging them to learn by interacting and asking questions about various raptors. They currently offer two packages: On-site Encounters, where scholars visit the centre, or Traveling Encounters, where the Eagle Encounters team visits the school with different bird species.
Bird Shows and personal eagle encounters at Spier
Entrance to Eagle Encounters includes interactive flying shows and personal interactions with African Wood Owls, their famous dancing Barn Owls, Bearded Dragons, and more. At an additional fee, you can also book a personal encounter with Wally, the friendly Wahlberg’s Eagle, or Leo, the majestic Black Eagle.
There are a few bird shows throughout the day. You can learn more about the birds’ natural talents and unique adaptations for individual hunting styles in these shows. Be sure to phone or check their website to ensure you are on time for one of these bird shows.
If you are interested in falconry, look at their “Into the Wild” experience, where you get a brief introduction to falconry and enjoy a hike with Harris Hawks, freely following on.
Finding Eagle Encounters at Spier
You can find Eagle Encounters on the historic Spier Wine Farm, Baden Powell Drive (R310), Lynedoch, Stellenbosch, near Cape Town. They are open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 to 5:00, even on public holidays (except Christmas Day). You can buy your tickets at the door and don’t have to book in advance. Contact them ahead of time if you want to make a big group booking.
Eagle Encounters also offer annual memberships. If you’re planning on visiting Eagle Encounters at least two times a year, you should consider getting the annual membership.
You can also contact them for off-site events. This includes private functions, business seminars, or special occasions like engagements. The birds are also available for movie and photographic shoots. Please have a look at their website for more information.
Some notes:
- Closed on Mondays. They are open from 9:30 – 17:00, Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Mondays and Christmas Day. Eagle Encounters is open on all public holidays.
- You control your interaction. Most birds are enclosed, so if you don’t like to be too close to the birds, don’t worry, you are in control of your encounters.
- Rocky roads. Some pathways between the various bird enclosures are paved, and sometimes you walk on the grass. Wear appropriate comfortable shoes.
- Sunscreen and a hat. The entire park is outdoors, so remember to wear sunscreen, a cap on a lovely sunny day, and warm clothing on a cold day.
- Personal encounters. If you are brave enough, you can experience the incredible power of Leo, a large Black Eagle, or Wally the Wahlberg’s Eagle.